Precision Medicine for Colorectal Cancer

Abstract

This article provides an overview of the current status and future perspectives of precision medicine for colorectal cancer. Following the Human Genome Project and the Precision Medicine Initiative, cancer genome medicine has advanced rapidly, enabling individualized therapy based on molecular alterations. However, spatial and temporal tumor heterogeneity has emerged as a major cause of treatment resistance, highlighting the potential of liquid biopsy. In particular, minimal residual disease (MRD) assessment using circulating tumor DNA serves as a promising biomarker for predicting recurrence risk and adjuvant chemotherapy efficacy, paving the way for the evolution of the “TNMB classification” that integrates molecular data. The emerging concept of precision surgery aims to balance curability and functional preservation through the integration of AI, imaging, and molecular profiling. Ultimately, achieving “equity-based precision medicine,” which addresses cost-effectiveness and regional disparities, will be essential for realizing truly personalized cancer care.